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Top 10 things to do in Pisa

 

How about picking Pisa for your next city break? Here’s the lowdown on the top things to do in this Tuscan treasure...

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Holidays to Pisa are all about iconic architecture, scenic streets and fab food! From the Leaning Tower to the romantic riverside, this striking city is full of charm. And it’s a great starting point if you’re looking to explore some more of Tuscany. Let’s take a look!

1. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa

2. Browse the shops on Borgo Stretto

3. Explore Piazza dei Miracoli

4. Antique market in Piazza dei Cavalieri

5. Go inside the iconic Pisa Cathedral

6. Stroll along the banks of the Arno River

7. Take a trip to Marina di Pisa

8. Marvel at the art in Palazzo Blu

9. Join a walking tour of the city

10. Get stuck into the cuisine

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1. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa

This city’s not all about the Leaning Tower, but it’s a good place to start. Hailed as one of the most iconic architectural structures in Europe, the landmark has tourists flocking from every corner of the globe to see its unbelievable tilt. Climb to the top and you’ll also have a bird’s-eye view of some other spectacular city sights.

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2. Browse the shops on Borgo Stretto

A web of alleyways and Crayola-coloured buildings, Borgo Stretto has shops selling everything from boutique clothing to homemade handicrafts. It’s one of the main shopping streets in the centre of historic Pisa, making it a tempting place for an afternoon coffee and a spot of people watching.

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3. Explore Piazza dei Miracoli

Piazza dei Miracoli, better known as the Square of Miracles, is Pisa’s famous piazza and home to the baptistery, cathedral, cemetery and, of course, the Leaning Tower. With all those architectural wonders, it’ll come as no surprise that it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The perfectly manicured lawns that surround it only add to its spectacular setting.

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4. Antique market in Piazza dei Cavalieri

Aside from being a staggering square, Piazza de Cavalieri is also home to one of the coolest flea markets in Tuscany. Even if you’re not in need of an antique or treasured trinket, it’s well worth taking a stroll around to see what you can spot. Think old paintings, books and shabby-chic furniture. The market takes place on the second Saturday and Sunday of every month, all day long.

5. Go inside the iconic Pisa Cathedral

Just a hop, skip and a jump from the Leaning Tower is Pisa’s Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta, which dominates its teetered counterpart with its magnificent Moorish features and tiered exterior. Take a peek inside and you’ll see an intricately carved pulpit depicting the life of Christ, along with 27 paintings from different Italian artists adorning the gallery behind the altar.

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6. Stroll along the banks of the Arno River

Once you’ve ticked off the tower and pondered around the piazzas, make your way to the riverside. Past the kaleidoscopic houses and across the historic bridges, you’ll find gelato spots and Aperol bars where you can make a pitstop and enjoy lovely views of the Arno River.

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7. Take a trip to Marina di Pisa

When you fancy a break from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, why not take a trip to Tuscany’s seaside town? Spend the day going from sand to sea or dine waterside and tuck into some fresh fish – the choice is yours.

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8. Marvel at the art in Palazzo Blu

This dusty-blue art gallery sits pretty on the riverside in the heart of Pisa’s historic centre. Inside, it houses a collection of paintings spanning the 14th to the 20th centuries, predominantly from Pisan artists. The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions too and has enticed all manner of famous faces from Duchamp and Kandinsky to Picasso and Warhol.

9. Join a walking tour of the city

Looking to save some pennies? Keep your eyes (and ears) peeled for a pay-what-you-want walking tour. Often led by a local guide, they’re a great way to find out about the history and culture. Plus, you’ll often get local recommendations from someone who knows the city. Your guide will normally expect a small fee at the end if you enjoyed the tour. Some people give €10, others give €20 – you choose the price!

10. Get stuck into the cuisine

Pizza, pasta and pecorino-stuffed paninis – Pisa’s food scene is a real treat for the taste buds. Dishes like chickpea soup and stoccafisso alla pisana (AKA stockfish) grace many a menu and have to be sampled. Not in the mood for a full-blown meal? Make the most of the Italian ‘aperitivo’ hour down by the waterfront. You can grab some complimentary nibbles to accompany your cocktails, normally between 6pm and 9pm.

Posted: 9th Nov 2023.

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